
J.J. McCarthy is poised to be the Minnesota Vikings’ starting quarterback in the upcoming season, and running back Jordan Mason is expected to play a crucial role in maximizing the second-year QB’s potential.
J.J. McCarthy is poised to be the Minnesota Vikings’ starting quarterback in the upcoming season, and running back Jordan Mason is expected to play a crucial role in maximizing the second-year QB’s potential.
Mason joined the Vikings in a trade with the San Francisco 49ers during the 2025 offseason, a move that helped clear cap space for Brock Purdy’s massive five-year, \$265 million extension. This deal made Purdy the highest-paid player in 49ers history.
On May 16, Mason took to Instagram to show support for Purdy, posting, “He was destined for it \[100 emoji],” along with the message, “Go be great Purdy.” Mason and Purdy were both rookies with the 49ers in 2022, with Purdy famously being drafted as the final pick (Mr. Irrelevant), while Mason signed with the team as an undrafted free agent.
In 2024, Mason had a standout season, starting six games alongside Purdy in the 49ers’ backfield. He rushed for 789 yards and 3 touchdowns on 153 carries. After the trade, Mason signed a two-year, \$10.5 million extension with the Vikings.
Mason’s addition is part of the Vikings’ strategy to support McCarthy with a strong running game. Another move that signals this approach was the re-signing of Aaron Jones to a two-year, \$20 million deal. Jones, coming off a career year in 2024 where he rushed for 1,138 yards and 5 touchdowns, will turn 31 in December and has a history of injuries.
Despite playing all 17 games in 2024, the Vikings’ rushing game ranked only 14th in attempts, 19th in yards, and 22nd in touchdowns. With McCarthy at the helm, head coach Kevin O’Connell is focused on improving the ground attack to protect the young quarterback.
Mason is expected to remain in his role as a high-usage RB2, a position that could prove wise for the Vikings. He played 378 snaps in 2024, a career high, and as a starter, he posted a solid 104 carries for 544 yards and 2 touchdowns, averaging 5.2 yards per carry.
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